“Be merciful!
Even as your Father
Is merciful.”
Γίνεσθε οἰκτίρμονες, καθὼς ὁ Πατὴρ ὑμῶν οἰκτίρμων ἐστίν
The result of the kindness of God was that the followers of Jesus should also be merciful (Γίνεσθε οἰκτίρμονες), even as their Father is merciful (καθὼς ὁ Πατὴρ ὑμῶν οἰκτίρμων ἐστίν). Matthew, chapter 5:48, had Jesus say that they should be perfect, like their heavenly Father by loving and greeting everyone. Only Matthew had this emphasis on perfection, completeness, or maturity, while Luke had Jesus emphasize mercy. Would you rather be merciful or perfect?
Eugene Finnegan Bible Project 